Shane Conran
Shane Michael Conran of Santa Barbara, CA passed away on September 20, 2015, after courageously battling brain cancer. Shane’s optimism was inspiring. He would comment during the past year that “Many other people are suffering more than I,” which is a testimony to his compassion. He was a wonderful, kind and caring person, always ready and willing to help in any way he could.
Born in Laredo, TX on August 15, 1959, Shane was the eldest child of Philip and Margaret Conran. He attended Milford High School in New Hampshire and graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1982 with an Air Force Reserve commission.
After moving to California and while employed at Ventura Valve & Fitting, Shane completed his MBA at Cal Lutheran University and obtained his instructor pilot’s license. Finishing a successful career at VV&F, he helped found Superior Fluid Solutions. He married Donna Drean in 1990, and they settled in Santa Barbara, CA. In 1997 their beautiful daughter, Michelle, was born.
Shane loved nature, traveling and adventure, whether it was flying cross-country in a Cessna or hiking Mount Whitney. After his diagnosis, he was asked if he wished to visit anywhere in the world. He replied, “No,” because he was already in the place he cherished, and he was with family he treasured.
Shane leaves behind his wife of 25 years, Donna (Drean) Conran, and their daughter, Michelle Conran. He is survived by his parents, Ret. Col. Philip and Margaret (Tierney) Conran; his sister, Kelly Berlo; his two brothers, Patrick and Michael Conran, and their wives; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Raphael’s Church, 5444 Hollister Ave., with a reception following in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a trust fund for Shane’s daughter, Michelle. Donations are much appreciated and may be made by credit card via https://www.youcaring.com/michelle-conran-439203 or by check made payable to The Michelle S. Conran Trust and mailed to P.O. Box 6523, Santa Barbara, CA 93160-6523. Shane devoted his life to Michelle and would be very humbled by your kindness.